East London – A video showing EFF supporters singing, chanting and marching down the aisle of a FlySafair flight to East London has sparked public debate and prompted an investigation by the airline.
The group, dressed in EFF regalia, was travelling to support party leader Julius Malema during his court appearance for firearms-related convictions on Friday.
While some social media users praised the display of solidarity, others criticised the behaviour as disruptive and disrespectful to fellow passengers, calling on FlySafair to take action.
Just imagine the torture.
Fly SAA to East London.
No peacefull flight, meal or meaningfully conversation with others. pic.twitter.com/NrXFFXP47I— Disprin (@DisprinXtra) January 23, 2026
The airline confirmed it is reviewing the incident to determine whether any safety or conduct protocols were breached, but has not indicated when the investigation will be concluded.
“We take passenger safety very seriously. The incident you’re referring to is currently under investigation to establish exactly what happened on board.
“FlySafair has strict policies in place to ensure all passengers travel safely and respectfully, and if it’s found that any of these were breached, appropriate action will be taken. We appreciate your patience while this review is completed.”
Imagine paying for a flight and you have this lot onboard.
Absolutely no respect or decency.
I saw the one post from an EFF’er where he posted this video and proclaimed, “We dealt with white arrogance we mean business…”
No boy, you were rude to a flight attendant. What an… pic.twitter.com/TxLK3CJuHP
— Pookie’s Polls & Opinions (@pookiepolls) January 23, 2026
The incident occurred amid heightened political activity around Malema’s sentencing.
Hundreds of EFF supporters later gathered outside the East London courts, claiming he was being persecuted for his political views.
Malema told supporters he was unafraid of imprisonment, accusing white groups of using the courts to target the EFF and vowing not to retreat from his political stance.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
